Visual kei rock band Kizu (キズ) have announced that they will partially suspend band activities as of February 27, 2027. The four-member group — consisting of kaimu (Vo, G), reiki (G), yue (B), and kyounosuke (Dr) — shared the news through their official website and social media channels on June 1.

The band explained the decision, stating: "After repeated discussions about future direction, we determined that in order to deliver the best version of Kizu going forward, we needed time for each of us to confront and re-examine ourselves." No timeline for a potential return has been set; the band says they will announce a resumption when preparations are complete.

Formed in 2017, Kizu quickly carved out a distinct identity in the visual kei scene with music themed around pain, loneliness, life and death — matched with intense live performances. The band gained a dedicated following through consistent releases and tours, and notably held a one-man live at Tokyo's NHK Hall in 2023.

Final Album and Farewell Tour

Before the hiatus, Kizu will release what they are calling their "1st Last Album" titled Gokuraku Yori Gokujou no Ame (極楽より極上の雨, "A Rain More Supreme Than Paradise") on August 5, 2026. The album will be their first major release since their August 2022 single Little Girl wa Yameteiru.

Following the album release, the band will embark on a nationwide Zepp tour titled Kizu Zepp TOUR 'Tenyouenjun' (天照焔巡, "Heaven-Shining Flame Pilgrimage"):

  • September 5 — Zepp Haneda (Tokyo)
  • September 12 — Zepp Sapporo (Hokkaido)
  • September 22 — KT Zepp Yokohama (Kanagawa)
  • September 26 — Zepp Fukuoka
  • October 3 — Zepp Nagoya (Aichi)
  • October 10 — Zepp Osaka Bayside

Community Reaction

The announcement has drawn significant attention in the visual kei community, with the Natalie article receiving 175 reactions and 12 comments within hours of publication. Fans on social media expressed a mix of shock and understanding, with many commenting that the band's decision to prioritize artistic integrity over forced output was commendable. JROCK ONE and other visual kei news outlets picked up the story, noting that Kizu had maintained a strong live presence and consistent output throughout their nine-year career.

A Legacy of Intensity

Kizu rose through the visual kei ranks with a sound blending melodic hooks with heavy, cathartic instrumentation. Their 2021 YouTube series "Ichigeki" (一撃) featured collaborations with artists such as Gara (Merry), Tatsuro (MUCC), and NOBUYA (ROTTENGRAFFTY), showcasing their respected position within the scene. The band's final shows and album represent the culmination of nearly a decade of uncompromising visual kei artistry.